MTV Channel Private Limited has responded to the letter of demand by Perpetual Treasuries Limited, dated October 13, 2016 through Nithi Murugesu and Associates, with a counter claim of Rs.25 billion.
The letter says that MTV Channel Private Limited categorically denies the several erroneous, misconceived allegations contained in the purported letter of demand and purported monetary claim.
The letter denies that MTV Channel Private Limited caused to be telecast or telecasted any statements on the programme Pethikada on October 11, 2016, that were either libelous or defamatory per se or by innuendo of Perpetual Treasuries Limited and its reputation.
Further, it states that what was telecast was inquired into, researched and investigated, and was carried in the best interests of the public and national interests and constituted truth for the public benefit and was fair comment.
The letter states that MTV Channel Private Limited is a well renowned , responsible and award-winning independent media institution that engages in accurate revelatory, research-based reporting and broadcasting in respect of matters that impinge upon public and national interests which includes matters pertaining to public monies, public finance, economy, corruption – both financial and political – bribery, issues pertaining to the share market, the bond and money markets, concentration of financial affluence, taxation, political matters, to name a few.
The letter also states that the programme Pethikada serves to inform and empower the general public of Sri Lanka who have an which is a basic right that is inalienable.
The letter adds that Perpetual Treasuries Limited is, through its purported letter of demand, engaging in a blatant attempt to stifle media freedom, entrenched right to freedom of speech and the right to information,which is a basic right that is inalienable.
The letter states that MTV Channel Private Limited is ever ready and willing to provide an opportunity to Perpetual Treasuries Limited to set out its position.
The letter goes on to say that any action sought to be instituted by Perpetual Treasuries would be vigorously resisted and defended by MTV Channel Private Limited which would prefer a counter claim for Rs. 25 billion for any malicious, frivolous institution of civil proceedings, damages and incurred costs, among other things.
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